An important international seminar on Bangladesh-US relations and the current political situation was held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., USA. Organized by the think tank 'Center for US Bangladesh Relations', Sheikh Hasina—five-time elected Prime Minister of Bangladesh, President of the Awami League, and daughter of Bangabandhu—joined the event virtually. Her son and political figure, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, was present in person. The event was presided over by Ekushey Padak-winning writer and scientist Dr. Nuru Nabi and moderated by Rana Mahmud.

1. Background and International Significance of the Event During her extended stay abroad, Sheikh Hasina's virtual press briefings and addresses have sparked discussion across various quarters. However, this event held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. carries relatively greater significance, as it was attended by representatives from mainstream international media, think tanks, and prominent individuals working on policies related to the US State Department and the White House. Around fifty distinguished personalities and journalists attended the event, elevating it to a diplomatically and politically crucial platform.

2. Sajeeb Wazed Joy’s Active Presence and the Human Rights Issue While Sajeeb Wazed Joy had been joining various seminars virtually following August 5, 2024, his in-person presence at this Washington, D.C. event marked a new turn. In his speech, he primarily highlighted the acts of violence committed against leaders and activists of the Awami League, Jubo League, Swechasebak League, as well as the general public during the recent political transition. Presenting a detailed catalog of alleged human rights violations before the international community, he emphasized the need for a neutral and objective assessment. 3. Sheikh Hasina’s Address: Democracy, Foreign Policy, and Security Concerns Joining via Zoom from Delhi, Sheikh Hasina articulated specific views on Bangladesh's ongoing political crisis and the way forward. The key aspects highlighted in her speech are discussed below:

• Democratic Continuity and Stability: She reaffirmed that there is no alternative to a democratic system for genuine national development and political stability. She noted that without established democracy, the security of both domestic and foreign investments would be compromised. • Bilateral Relations with the United States: Reaffirming her principle of non-interference in the internal politics of the US administration, she clarified that Bangladesh views the US administration not as an adversary, but as a development partner. • Foreign Conspiracy and Regime Change: Responding to a journalist's question, she alleged that her government was ousted through a specific foreign conspiracy and the hiring of terrorists using financial grants. In this context, she referenced a statement by US President Donald Trump regarding USAID funding and involvement, expressing her gratitude for revealing this information.

• Resolve to Return Home and Security Concerns: Despite repeated attempts on her life, she reiterated her firm determination to return to Bangladesh at any cost to protect the rights of the country's people.

4. Conclusion The seminar held at the National Press Club in Washington essentially elevated Bangladesh's political crisis to a new diplomatic stage in the global arena. On one hand, it drew the attention of the international media through a US-based think tank; on the other hand, direct statements from top leadership have sparked new political discussions regarding democratic frameworks and foreign relation dynamics amid current realities. Author: Dr. Abul Hasnat Milton, Journalist, Political Analyst, and Editor-in-Chief, The Source News Bangla